Things in the MMA community looked pretty rough over the past few days. From the passing of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, numerous fighters getting sick from COVID-19, and losing the Fight Island PPV headliner in Gilbert Burns was the icing on the cake.

However, not even 48 hours removed from Burns falling sick with the virus, Kamaru Usman and Jorge Masvidal have reportedly signed their bout agreements and are en route to Vegas, where they will be tested for COVID-19, quarantine, and then fly to Las Island in Abu Dhabi.

After constant headlines teasing negotiations yesterday, many were doubtful that this agreement would come to pass, especially considering Masvidal’s prior issues with the UFC regarding fighter pay.

Masvidal is coming off his “belt”-winning effort over Nate Diaz back in October, a victory that propelled him to be awarded 2019’s Fighter of the Year award. The BMF will have no shortage of respect after accepting this short-notice challenge, especially for the belt on a mere six days notice.

Of course, we still have a number of tests to get through, so everyone keep their fingers and screw it, even your toes, crossed until the main event goes down on Saturday.

Keep an eye out on our home page for the main card and prelims predictions for UFC 251, coming out tomorrow!